The impact a transfer quarterback is having on Alabama football this spring

As the Alabama Crimson Tide enter their 2025 spring football practices, the quarterback position stands as a focal point of both intrigue and competition. With the departure of starting quarterback Jalen Milroe to the NFL, a trio of talented quarterbacks—Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and incoming freshman Keelon Russell—are vying for the starting role. Each brings a unique skill set and background to the table, promising a dynamic battle that will significantly influence Alabama’s offensive strategy in the upcoming season.

Ty Simpson: The Experienced Contender

Ty Simpson, entering his redshirt sophomore year, has been a part of the Crimson Tide program since 2022. Despite limited on-field experience, his tenure under the tutelage of former starter Jalen Milroe and the coaching staff has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of Alabama’s offensive system. Simpson’s familiarity with the playbook and team dynamics positions him as a strong candidate for the starting job. His patience and commitment to development reflect a readiness to step into a leadership role.

Austin Mack: The Transfer with Potential

Austin Mack’s journey to Alabama is marked by resilience and adaptability. Originally a four-star recruit, Mack began his collegiate career at the University of Washington in 2023, where he redshirted his freshman year. Following the season, he entered the transfer portal and reunited with coach Kalen DeBoer at Alabama. In the 2024 season, Mack served as a backup to Jalen Milroe, making a brief appearance in one game where he completed two of three passes for 39 yards and a touchdown. With Milroe’s departure, Mack now competes with Simpson and Russell for the starting position. His prior experience with DeBoer’s coaching style and offensive philosophy could provide him with an edge in the competition.

Keelon Russell: The Freshman Phenom

Keelon Russell arrives in Tuscaloosa with considerable acclaim. Hailing from Duncanville High School in Texas, Russell was a five-star recruit and the 2024 Gatorade High School Football Player of the Year. His high school career was distinguished by impressive statistics and leadership, culminating in back-to-back state championships. Russell’s decision to commit to Alabama was influenced by the relationships he developed with the coaching staff and the program’s track record of developing NFL-caliber quarterbacks. Despite his youth, Russell’s talent and poise make him a formidable contender for the starting role.

The Impact of the Quarterback Competition

The competition among Simpson, Mack, and Russell is expected to elevate the overall performance of the quarterback unit. Each player’s unique attributes contribute to a diverse pool of talent:

Experience and System Knowledge: Simpson’s extended time within the program provides him with an intrinsic understanding of Alabama’s offensive schemes and culture.
Adaptability and Coaching Familiarity: Mack’s previous experience under Coach DeBoer at Washington and his adaptability to new environments position him well to integrate seamlessly into the offense.
Raw Talent and Leadership: Russell’s high school accolades and leadership qualities suggest a high ceiling for his development and immediate impact potential.

This healthy competition is likely to foster a culture of excellence, pushing each quarterback to refine their skills and adapt to the evolving demands of the team’s offensive strategy.

Offensive Strategy and Adaptations

The outcome of the quarterback competition will significantly influence Alabama’s offensive approach in the 2025 season. Coach Kalen DeBoer, known for his adaptable and innovative offensive schemes, will tailor the playbook to accentuate the strengths of the chosen starter:

If Simpson prevails, the offense may emphasize continuity, leveraging his familiarity with existing schemes to maintain a balanced attack.
Should Mack secure the starting role, his previous experience with DeBoer’s system could lead to a seamless integration of advanced passing concepts and strategic adaptability.
If Russell emerges as the starter, the offense might incorporate more dynamic and versatile plays, capitalizing on his athleticism and playmaking abilities.

Regardless of the outcome, the coaching staff’s ability to adapt the offensive strategy to the quarterback’s strengths will be crucial in maintaining Alabama’s competitive edge.

Team Dynamics and Leadership

The quarterback position inherently carries leadership responsibilities that extend beyond on-field performance. The new starter will need to establish rapport with teammates, command respect in the locker room, and embody the program’s values. This transition period offers an opportunity for emerging leaders to step forward and solidify the team’s cohesion.

The 2025 spring practices for Alabama football are marked by a pivotal quarterback competition that will shape the trajectory of the upcoming season. Ty Simpson’s experience, Austin Mack’s adaptability, and Keelon Russell’s raw talent each present compelling cases for the starting role. As the competition unfolds, the coaching staff’s evaluations will focus on not only physical performance but also leadership qualities and the ability to execute the offensive vision. The resolution of this competition will set the tone for Alabama’s pursuit of excellence in the 2025 season.